Haircare - Hair

Blue Shampoo on Black Hair: How It Works & Benefits

Here’s how blue shampoo works on black hair, and what you can get out of it.

Written by Amber Belanger
Blue shampoo on black hair

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Blue shampoo might sound like a mysterious hair care product, but don’t let the name fool you. If you have black hair, this gem might become a must-have in your routine.

With its unique formula, blue shampoo helps keep your black hair looking vibrant and free of any unwanted yellow or orange tones.

But how does it work, and how do you know, if you should use it?

When your hair is exposed to various environmental factors or harsh products, it’s possible to see a subtle shift in color. The magic behind blue shampoo lies in its ability to neutralize these unwanted hues. It ensures your black hair remains true to its shade.

Plus, you don’t have to use it as frequently as your regular shampoo.

Lets get into how it all works.

What Does Blue Shampoo Do to Black Hair?

Blue shampoo is designed for brown hair to counteract orange tones. But orange tones can also develop in other hair colors, such as black.

Here’s how the shampoo works.

Toning Shampoo & Undertones

Blue shampoo is a toning shampoo designed to help neutralize unwanted shades that show up in hair.

When you’re trying to maintain your black hair, blue shampoo can assist by evening out the color and getting rid of any yellow or orange undertones.

Just like purple shampoo is used for blonde and silver hair, blue shampoo works best for brown and sometimes black hair.

Hair ColorBest ShampooTones Neutralized
BlackBlue ShampooOrange
BrownBlue ShampooOrange
BlondePurple ShampooYellow
SilverPurple ShampooYellow

Hair Color and Brassiness

Environmental factors and product build-up may cause your black hair to develop a brassy appearance.

The blue pigments in blue shampoo counteract these unwanted shades, restoring the original black color you desire.

Regular use of blue shampoo can keep your black hair looking vibrant and rich. Without those unattractive brassy tones.

Does Blue Shampoo Lighten or Darken Hair?

Blue shampoo does not lighten or darken it black hair. Instead, it helps maintain the true black color by neutralizing unwanted yellow and orange hues.

Blue shampoo is generally for hair that has been previously lightened or highlighted. This means it works to improve the overall look of your hair color. Without affecting its darkness or lightness.

Can You Use Blue Shampoo on Black Hair?

Yes, you can use blue shampoo on black hair. It helps keep your black hair looking vibrant by neutralizing unwanted yellow or orange tones.

Remember not to overuse it to avoid any risk of discoloration or dryness. This way, you’ll enjoy the benefits of blue shampoo while maintaining your beautiful black hair color.

Benefits of Blue Shampoo for Black Hair

There are several benefits when you use blue shampoo on black hair:

  • Combatting orange and brassy tones
  • Color-correcting dye jobs
  • Extending hair color lifespan
  • Preserving color-treated look
  • Enhancing shine and health of hair

Combatting Orange and Brassy Tones

Blue shampoo is a fantastic way to combat any unwanted orange and brassy tones in your hair. If you have black hair that has been color-treated or lightened, it may develop these brassy tones.

Use blue shampoo to neutralize the warm hues and keep your hair color right.

Color-Correcting a Dye Job

Sometimes, dye jobs don’t come out exactly the way you want them to. The good news is blue shampoo can provide temporary color-correcting.

By balancing out the color and minimizing any unwanted discoloration, it helps your hair stay true to its desired shade.

Extend Your Hair Color

Blue shampoo is can help extend the life of your hair color. By neutralizing brassy tones and preserving the color-treated look, you can enjoy your hair color for longer. Plus, your hair will look shinier and healthier.

How to Use Blue Shampoo on Black Hair

Here’s how to use blue shampoo on black hair for the best results possible.

Application Tips

  1. Begin by wetting your black hair thoroughly.
  2. Apply the blue shampoo to your hair, just like you would with any regular shampoo.
  3. Gently massage the shampoo into your hair and scalp, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
  4. Pay extra attention to areas where brassy or orange tones are visible.
  5. Leave the shampoo in your hair for a few minutes so it can cleanse and deposit blue pigments that neutralize unwanted tones.
  6. Rinse out the shampoo completely from your hair.
  7. Apply a conditioner to your hair to finish the process.

Blue shampoo can dry out your hair, which is why the last step is important.

Frequency of Use

Blue shampoo can lead to over-toning if you use it too often. This can cause your hair to appear darker or even have a slight blue tint.

To avoid this, use the shampoo once a week or every other week, depending on the level of brassy tones in your hair.

Monitor your hair’s progress and adjust the frequency of use as needed to maintain the desired result.

Ingredients to Look for in Blue Shampoo

When selecting a blue shampoo for your black hair, look for the following key ingredients:

  • Color-depositing pigments: These pigments work to neutralize unwanted brassy and orange tones in your hair.
  • Sulfate-free: A sulfate-free formula will be gentler on your hair and help preserve your color.
  • Protein and hydration: Look for shampoos containing hair-healthy proteins and hydrating ingredients to keep your hair soft and moisturized.

Caring for Color-Treated Black Hair

Blue shampoo is an important part of caring for your hair color. But, you can do more. Here are 6 tips to care for black color-treated hair:

  1. Protect Your Hair from the Sun
  2. Use High-Quality Hair Products
  3. Apply Hair Masks Regularly
  4. Tame Frizz
  5. Don’t Forget a Heat Protectant
  6. Use a Color-Depositing Shampoo

Hair Care Routine Tips

1. Protect your hair from the sun

Sun exposure can fade your color-treated black hair. Make sure to wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner with UV protection when exposed to sunlight.

2. Use high-quality hair products

Invest in color-safe, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that are designed for color-treated hair like those recommended by celebrity stylist Sherzod Yusuf. This will help maintain the vibrancy of your highlights.

5. Apply hair masks regularly

Color-treated hair can become dry and damaged. Using a nourishing hair mask at least once a week can keep your hair healthy and hydrated.

4. Tame frizz

Applying a serum or hair oil after washing your hair can help control frizz and add shine to your color-treated black hair.

5. Don’t forget a heat protectant

Always use a heat protectant spray before using hot tools like a blow dryer or flat iron. The Dyson Supersonic is a high-quality blow dryer that measures air temperature and prevents extreme heat damage to your hair.

6. Use a color-depositing shampoo

Using a blue shampoo specifically designed for black hair can help maintain the richness and shine of your color. These shampoos neutralize unwanted color and keep your hair looking consistent.

Final Takeaway: Does Blue Shampoo Work on Black Hair?

The effectiveness of blue shampoo on black hair varies depending on your hair type and needs. Blue pigments in the shampoo are meant to neutralize brassiness and create a cooler-toned effect. However, some people find that blue shampoo works well for their black hair, while others don’t see the same results.

To achieve the desired outcome from using blue shampoo, it’s essential to find the right product and follow the instructions provided. Additionally, you can use a conditioner and hair mask maintain hydration and moisture.

Remember, it’s key to experiment with different products. Find what works for you. Be patient, and don’t be afraid to try out various blue shampoos until you find one that suits you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does blue shampoo work on dark hair with highlights?

Yes, blue shampoo works on dark hair with highlights, especially if your hair has been lightened or has a cool-toned base. The blue pigments in the shampoo help neutralize unwanted brassy tones and maintain the vibrancy of your highlights.

Can blue shampoo help with black hair brassiness?

Absolutely! Blue shampoo is designed to tackle brassiness and restore vibrancy in color-treated hair, including black or dark hair tones. It helps counteract orange tones and restore the original cool, ashy, or dark shade you desire.

How often should I use blue shampoo on my black hair?

You should use blue shampoo on your black hair around 1-2 times a week, depending on your hair’s specific needs and brassiness. Start by using it once a week, and if needed, increase the frequency. However, do not overuse it, as it may cause your hair to become too cool-toned or even slightly tinted.

Is blue shampoo better for black hair than purple shampoo?

Blue shampoo is more suited for neutralizing brassiness in black or dark hair with cool-toned highlights, while purple shampoo is designed for blonde and silver hair. Blue pigments work on counteracting orange tones in dark hair, whereas purple pigments target yellow tones in lighter hair.

Are there any risks of using blue shampoo on black hair?

The main risk of using blue shampoo on black hair is overusing the product, which may result in overly cool-toned hair or a slight tint. To avoid this, follow the recommended usage guidelines and monitor how your hair responds to the product. If you notice any unwanted effects, reduce the frequency of use or switch to a shampoo specifically designed for your hair type.

Photo of author

Amber Belanger

Amber is not just a beauty enthusiast. She has spent countless hours doing the nails of her friends, researching the newest studies on personal care, as well as tried and tested numerous hair products. She prides herself on her factuality and luscious hair.